Sunday, September 30, 2007

2007 Isuzu Ascender Review

The 2007 Isuzu Ascender can carry up to five occupants and is classed as a mid-range sport utility vehicle. It has has an MSRP range of $26,664 to $28,683. Trim levels are the S, LS, and Luxury.

The engine is a 4.2 liter 6-cylinder generating 291 horsepower with an automatic transmission with four speeds and overdrive. Estimated fuel consumption is 16 mpg city and 22 highway for the 2WD and 15/21 on the 4WD. Fuel capacity is 21.7 gallons.

Cargo volume posterior to the first row is 80.1 cubic feet and 43.7 to the second. The upper payload limit on the 2WD is 1,133 lbs. and 1,156 on the 4WD. Towing capacity is 5,300/5,200 lbs. respectively (2WD/4WD) with the 3.42 axle and 5,800/5,700 lbs. on the 3.73 axle.

The standard audio system on the S model is a typical combo unit playing over six speakers. The LS and the Luxury add a changer in the dash capable of handling six discs. XM Satellite Radio is an option on both higher models and the Luxury can be equipped with a Premium Bose unit.

All models discourage car theft with an immobilizer system and entry via a remote. An alrm system is included. All occupants are protected by airbags in the front with additional bags in the curtain position to cushion against impact from the side. Child seats in the Ascenders are anchored in place with the standard LATCH system and the locks on the rear doors are rated as child safe.

The seven-passenger Isuzu Ascender is available in three trim levels -- the S, LS, and Limited in 2WD and 4WD. MSRP ranges from $28,683 (2WD) to $31,878 (4WD.)

Engine choices are a 4.2-liter 6-cylinder producing 291 horsepower with an automatic transmission or a 5.3-liter with 300 horsepower (also as an automatic.) Both engines get roughly 15 mpg city and 20 highway on a 25 gallon fuel tank. Maximum towing capacity ranges from 4,900 lbs. to 6,400 lbs. Cargo volume posterior to the first row is 107.4 cubic feet, to the second 66.5, and to the third 23.4.

The standard audio system on the 2007 Isuzu Ascender S Model is an AM/FM/CD combo with six speakers. The higher models include a six-disc in-dash changer. (XM Satellite Radio is also an option on the LS and the Limited. Both a bike package (including a hitch-mounted bike carrier) and a ski package are available as accessories. All-season, on/off road tires are standard on all models.